A Duke of Her Own

by Lorraine Heath

  Now she hit the ball, and he watched as it soared over the net. He smashed it, returning it to her. She screeched and ducked.

  Have a care! Stonehaven called out. Youre playing against a lady.

  A lady who irritated him, pricked his anger, and of late had begun to stir his desire.

  My apologies, Hawk said. I dont seem to know my own strength.

  Are you certain thats it? Louisa called back.

  Quite. Why was it when she was near, he was continually distracted? Lets begin again, shall we, calling that last volley a practice?

  She looked at him warily before moving back to serve. He either needed to pour his efforts into winning or settle for defeatwhichever would bring the game to a hasty end so he could turn his attention to Jenny.

  She was the one who should be intriguing himnot the damned chaperone!

  He had the most sensual mouth. Full lips, questing tongue. And when he released one of his deep-throated groans, Jenny quite simply wanted to gobble him up.

  His hands remained respectful, cradling her waist, inching up her ribs, stopping just below her breasts. But his mouth, his mouth was decidedly wicked, trailing along her throat, his teeth nipping at her buttons until he skillfully loosened one, then two, then three, giving his tongue the freedom to taste hidden flesh.

  Shed despaired of ever having a moment alone with him.

  We should get back, she muttered, but her words lacked conviction.

  A moment more.

  You say that every time.

  Would you rather I willingly give you up?

  A time will come when youll have to. My mother is insisting that I marry a duke.

  He tensed, stilled. She felt his fingers digging into her ribs.

  Youre hurting me.

  Immediately he loosened his hold and pressed his forehead to hers. You take delight in tormenting me, in offering me glimpses of what I cannot keep.

  She cradled his handsome face. I torment us both.

  Before he could respond, she slipped free of him and darted around the corner, quickly buttoning her bodice. She knew she was playing a dangerous game. If they were ever caughtit would be the ruin of them both.

  Chapter 11

  A week later, with the chandeliers glittering above him and the ballroom filled to overflowing, Hawk stood beside Falconridge, their backs pressed to the wall, watching, waiting, and in Hawks case, temper simmering.

  He did not like the way the man held her as they dancedas though they shared secrets, secrets to which he was not privy. Intimate secrets, as though the man had held her bare ankle in his hand, run his palm along her calf, pressed his mouth behind her knee.

  Who the devil is Louisa dancing with? he ground out.

  Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Falconridge jerk his head around. He could feel the intensity of his friends gaze, but he couldnt see it because he was unable to tear his attention away from the merry couple on the dance floor. Louisa wore a different gown from the one shed worn to the opera or the one shed worn to the first ball. Trust a woman to have a few coins and start expanding her wardrobe. Although he might find fault with the frivolous purchase, he could find no fault with the lavender gown. She looked positively ravishing.

  The gentleman would be Jeremy Rose, Falconridge said.

  The heir to the Rose fortune, Hawk said speculatively. Perhaps Louisa was much more cunning than he realized. Ensconce herself in the Rose household, use her coins to make herself appear exquisite, snare the heir who would no doubt inherit millions.

  One of the heirs, Falconridge said. The Americans dont hold to our tradition of primogeniture. From what I understand, the Rose fortune will be divided equally into thirds.

  The daughters may inherit the money, but not the businesses.

  Falconridge shrugged. I dont know the particulars of how the estate will be settled, and I daresay were a bit premature in our speculation. James Rose seems in fine health. Have you settled on a sister?

  Jenny has reserved the next dance for me. I noticed Kate is not here this evening. I saw you spending some time with her during the afternoon party.

  Indeed. A most unfortunate encounter. Even if she were here this evening, she is the last one I would want to marry. She speaks of nothing except love. She wants poetry, flowers, and chocolates. She requires much too much work and effort.

  You believe you will find an heiress who doesnt require excessive attention?

  I have devised a plan that I believe will result in my marrying an heiress without much effort on my part.

  Care to share this amazing plan of yours?

  Not really, no.

  Well, my plan is to woo Jenny for a bit more, then go to her father and ask for her hand.

  Then why the interest in the man with whom Lady Louisa is dancing?

  Merely keeping a watch over Ravensleys sister since he isnt in attendance this evening.

  Where is he, by the by?

  No doubt licking his wounds again. Apparently Mrs. Rose is not impressed with his title.

  Yes, Ive heard. She is insisting that Jenny marry a duke, but I believe a clever man could convince her otherwise.

  And you believe youre a clever man?

  Im not going to give up as easily as Ravensley.

  Youre interested in Jenny?

  Im interested in any woman who can fill my coffers.

  Hawk wondered if Falconridge was a serious threat to his plan to acquire Jenny. The music drifted into silence. Hawk shoved himself away from the wall. It is time for me to pour on the charm, he said lightly.

  A strategist did not let the enemy know he had uncovered his weakness. Damnation, now he was thinking of his friends as enemies.

  The beauty of my plan is that no charm is needed, Falconridge said.

  Hawk turned. Then why are you here?

  Merely to observe and take pleasure in the fact that I will soon be beyond all this.

  And does your plan include moving Jenny beyond all this?

  I cannot say for certain, but it is possible.

  You are becoming a very irritating friend.

  I have become a desperate one.

  Hawk shook his head. I wish you luck with your endeavor, whatever it is.

  Falconridges mouth turned up only slightly, his eyes seemed to dim, not to match the merriment of the ball. Wont need luck.

  Whatever his plan was, Hawk truly hoped it turned out well for him, although he also hoped that it wouldnt place his quest of Jenny in jeopardy. Why was Falconridge always so tight-lipped? Perhaps because he didnt want to hear Hawk voice his suspicions of the success of any plan that required little effort.

  He thought of Louisa, who had stopped waiting for a gentleman to call and give her the life she deserved and instead had taken matters into her own hands. She had coins to spend, a smile that was more dazzling than the crystal chandeliers in the room, a laugh that wafted over to him, and the attention of a man reputed to be worth millions. She had set a fine example, an example Hawk intended to follow.

  He wanted to catch her eye, to receive some sort of acknowledgment of his approach, but she was busy talking with the younger Mr. Rose and a young woman whom Hawk did not recognize, introducing them perhaps. All three laughed as though they hadnt a care in the world. Envy did not suit Hawk, but he certainly felt it sitting upon his shoulder.

  Looking for me, Your Grace?

  He snapped his head around at Jennys words, hoped the heat of embarrassment that suddenly warmed his face wasnt visible. Indeed, I have been looking forward to our dance.

  He offered his arm and forced all his attention on the woman who placed her hand on it. Your brother seems to be enjoying himself, he heard himself say before he could prevent the words from tumbling out.

  Indeed. I think hes trying to get Lady Louisa into a bit of trouble. He taught her to play chess last night, and she soundly beat him. He said hes never known a woman who is as much a strategist as she is.

  He enjoys her company then, he
murmured, as they reached the dance area, and he took her into his arms.

  Oh, they get along famously well.

  How does your mother feel about theirfriendship?

  I dont think shes too keen on it, but Jeremy is her only son and can do no wrong in her eyes, so I suspect she will hold her tongue.

  I have been given the impression that your mother is very particular about whom her children marry.

  She laughed gaily. She has her opinion, and we have ours.

  And who will have the final say? he asked.

  When it comes to my marriage, I will.

  And if I were to speak with your father

  Are you proposing?

  Was he? Good God. An unexpected shiver of dread coursed through him. Im merely attempting to assess my chances of success.

  My father will not force me to marry anyone I dont wish to marry. I believe that I have mentioned that passion is my criterion. Im very fond of you, Your Grace, but as of yet, I have been unable to experience your passionate nature. I must also confess, Im in no hurry to wed or even to be spoken for. I intend to spend this Season sampling the selections. Perhaps next Season Ill make my decision.

  Sampling the selections?

  She smiled. Oh, yes. My chaperone is so very attentive that I must proceed cautiously and slowly so as not to arouse suspicions. She winked at him. Perhaps you could arrange another outing to the opera. Remember, Your Grace, it is passion I seek above all else, and I will not be content with less.

  I would like to escort Miss Jenny Rose to the opera again, Hawkhurst said. But she insisted I must verify her schedule with you.

  Louisa fought not to be disappointed that Hawkhurst was continuing his pursuit of Jenny or that the young lady was encouraging it. She was finding it increasingly difficult not to be aware of every nuance associated with him when he was near. She looked at her dance card, where she had been making notes. The duke was rudely looking over her shoulder.

  Thursday, she has a dinner engagement with Lord Bertram.

  Mmm, he rumbled near her ear, and she heard the censure in his muttering.

  With impatience, she glanced back at him. And what, pray tell, is wrong with Lord Bertram?

  He glanced around, before leaning nearer, bringing his unsettling scent of musk and maleness that much closer to her. Boils upon the buttocks, he whispered.

  She narrowed her eyes at him. If that were the case, the man would be unable to sit, and I have seen him sit on numerous occasions.

  He has them frequently lanced.

  She couldnt help herself. She grimaced as an image filled her mindI dont believe you.

  Ask him.

  As if she would ask a man about the very personal nature of his buttocks.

  Who else seeks her favor? he asked.

  That is none of your concern.

  He narrowed his dark eyes. Do I see the Marquess of Umberton on your list?

  She sighed. And I suppose you find fault with him.

  He is known to drink heavily before noon.

  Ha! You forget how well I know you, Your Grace. The same could be said of you.

  He gave her a devilish grin. I cease at dawn. He held up a finger. And I do not resume until twilight.

  And you find that admirable.

  I find it more admirable than a man who is constantly at the bottle. I also believe I spotted Lord Ketchums name on your list.

  I know he does not drink.

  Webbed feet.

  She stared at him. I beg your pardon?

  He held his hand up, his fingers spread wide, and drew imaginary lines connecting them. He joined me at the seaside once. We went swimming. Hes a remarkable swimmer. Has webs between his toes. Like a duck.

  Thats ridiculous.

  I thought so as well, but there you are. Who says God doesnt have a sense of humor? Who else?

  She dropped her hand to her side. None of your affair.

  It does not seem right that a lady as lovely as you should be using her dance card to keep records of another ladys social engagements.

  She didnt think her snort was too unladylike. Im not here to dance.

  Yet you were dancing.

  Was that a frisson of anger she heard opening in his voice?

  I do not see that my actions are your concern, she said.

  She watched his jaw clench. He was angry. Why? Why would he care?

  He cleared his throat. Dance with me then.

  Mrs. Rose would be none too pleased if she caught wind that Id danced with you again.

  You are the daughter of an earl. Who gives a damn whether or not she is pleased?

  She spun around and faced him. You are as irritating as my brother. You dont understand the importance of my position.

  Heat flared in his eyes, his nostrils flared. Do not for one moment mistake me for your brother.

  She furrowed her brow. He is your friend.

  He shook his head as though straining to rein in his temper. His behavior was most odd. She did wish her experience with men was such that she could decipher subtle nuances in behavior.

  Take a walk about the garden with me, he said.

  I must see after Jenny.

  She has another dance after this one and one after that. I daresay her dance card is filled and then some. Please, Louisa. Step outside with me.

  Louisa. Not Lady Louisa, as though there was an intimacy shared between them.

  On one condition. That I may ask a question of you, and you will honor me with the truth.

  His gaze grew intense. Ask.

  Does Lord Bertram truly have boils?

  He straightened, pressed his lips together, and shook his head. No.

  And Lord

  You said a question. I have fulfilled my obligation, and now you must carry through with yours.

  You are attempting to discredit other lords so that your own shortcomings might be overlooked, she stated, hating that shed allowed him to manipulate her, that shed actually believed his lies.

  He extended his arm. I believe we could both use some fresh air, and as you are a chaperone as you repeatedly remind meand not a debutante, no one should think anything of our leaving together.

  It would, however, be best if we werent touching, if we werent giving any sort of indication of intimacy.

  Very well. If you will lead the way.

  She thought she might be leading the way straight into hell. Still, she made her way to the glass-paned doors that had been left open to provide some additional air in the room. Dancing tended to make one extremely warm, as did having a gentleman so near. She was grateful to see that they werent the only ones walking along the lighted garden path, and she couldnt help but wonder if a time would come when chaperones would be a thing of the past. Already, her role was not so much guardian as advisor.

  Its a lovely evening, she said quietly. Anything to break the silence that seemed to have come upon them as soon as theyd stepped outside.

  Do you not miss it? he asked.

  She glanced over at him. Miss what?

  The attention.

  She laughed lightly. I was never one to receive much attention. No dowry, you know.

  Yes, that does make it difficult for a lady.

  It makes it impossible.

  Your brother believes that, if he were to marry well, he could see you nicely situated in marriage.

  Ah, but now I have experienced independence, and Im not entirely certain that I want to return to the way things were. Why do you know that this afternoon I actually went shopping again without an escort? At my leisure. I was amazed. It was quiteliberating.

  And dangerous, he fairly growled.

  I was perfectly safe. There were constables about.

  A woman needs protection.

  Protection, a chaperone, a dowry, a husbandI cannot say that any of those things is precisely what a woman needs .

  And what do you perceive as a woman needing?

  I daresay, I think the Rose sisters have the right of
it: passion and love. Unlike them, though, I do not think the order is important as long as a woman acquires both.

  A husband can provide those things.

  Not always, Your Grace. I would have thought your mother would have taught you that.

  And what do you know of my mother? he asked, a frisson of anger working its way through his voice.

  Only what I have heard. Your father died when I was but a babe, but I know he was considerably older than your mother. Was it a love match?

  No, I suspect not.

  His voice contained a profound sadness.

  She stopped walking and touched his arm. My sincerest apologies. That was not only rude but insensitive.

  Did your father love your mother? he asked.

  Yes, I believe he did. Too much perhaps. He indulged her every whim. It is part of the reason that we are in poverty now.

  Can a man love too much? he asked.

  I suppose not. But he can love rather foolishly.

  With that sentiment, I will not argue.

  A couple passed by them, and Louisa decided it was best to stay on the move. She began walking again, and he fell into step beside her. You wished to speak with me about something? she prodded.

  Yes. It is no secret Im in dire financial straits.

  No, Your Grace, it is no secret.

  I need your assistance

  I cannot give it, as I have already explained.

  Answer me this: How will Miss Rose deduce that any man is one of passion if you never grant her a moment alone with him?

  You are not suggesting that I grant you a moment alone with her?

  Im merely curious. He took her arm, led her off the path, into the shadows of the trees. If her criterion is passion, how can you judge that a man may provide what she desires?

  Im certain there are ways.

  Dont be naïve, Louisa. Passion must be experienced in order to be proven, and if you will not allow her a moment alone with me, then you must serve as messenger.

  With one bare handwhen in Gods name had he removed his glove?he cradled her cheek and tilted her head back slightly, just before he bent down and lowered his mouth to hers. The first brush of his lips was as gentle and warm as summer rain, a tantalizing touch, a mere whisper